Track and field: CU Buffs' Van Halen eighth in NCAA steeplechase

Colorado's Aric Van Halen wrapped up his college career with an All-American effort at the NCAA Championships in Eugene, Ore., on Friday.

The Buff was eighth in the 3,000-meter steeplechase at Hayward Field. His finish was his best at nationals and good for All-America First Team honors.

UTEP's Anthony Rotich won in 8 minutes, 21.19 seconds and Texas A&M's Henry Lelei, the overall favorite, ended up second (8:23.16) after falling in the final water jump. Arkansas' Staney Kebenei was third in 8:24.45. Van Halen finished in 8:44.50.

The top three broke away from the pack early and were never challenged again. The other nine racers ran together for the majority of the race and Van Halen was right near the front of that pack and led the group for four laps until just before the field entered the bell lap.

Also Friday, CU's Mark Jones made his first attempt over the bar at 6-8.75, but missed all three tries at 6-10.75 in the high jump. He tied with two others for 21st overall as all three made it over 6-8.75 on their first attempt.

Emma Coburn will wrap up the NCAA Championships for the Buffs Saturday in the women's 3,000-meter steeplechase. She will be trying to win her second title in the event after she won in 2011 and redshirted in 2012. Coburn's final is at 3:57 p.m. MT and will be broadcast live on ESPNU.

Boulder is pretty good at producing rock bands, and by "rock," we mean the in-your-face, guitar-heavy, leather-clad variety — you know, the good kind. For a prime example, look no farther than BANDITS. Full Story